A military family member himself, Murphy’s grandfather is a World War II veteran and 60-year member of the American Legion. Murphy's first personally introduced legislation was an amendment calling for expansion of an existing federal Veterans Business Center program. These centers help veterans establish new small businesses, helping with business plans, obtaining grants and alternative financing commitments, among other things.
"There's only a handful of (Veterans Business Centers) around the country right now," Murphy announced on his website. "And if this is successful we would launch as many as 40 or 50 more of them over the next couple of years." The amendment was approved in short order.
VMFP is proud to endorse a legislator who clearly understands the rights and needs of veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.
"As an endorsed candidate, VMFP’s membership volunteered and contributed financially to help Scott Murphy become New York’s 20th Congressional District representative," said Matt Cary, president of the 501(c)(4) organization. "We celebrate his success in informing the public and garnering the votes to represent our constituency, and his local constituency in Congress. He has shown by his first actions that he’s ready to roll up his sleeves and lead on these issues, and educate the country and the rest of Congress with regards to veterans, those serving, and their families.
"We are encouraged as more of our endorsed candidates are joining the ranks of Congress," Cary added. "They recognize that veteran and military family issues are above partisanship and work shoulder-to-shoulder with VMFP to fulfill our mission. They understand that as a nation we must respond to the needs of those coming home from combat after serving our country," Cary added.
